single stage reloading for .45 ACP

OK,

I have a coworker who wants to get into reloading but can't afford a progressive press and doesn't care if it takes longer.

He wants to get a Lee single stage press, and I gave him a list of all the other accessories and equipment he would need.

Any other suggestions other than getting a progressive press?

Thanks,

Val

Wish him good luck on finding reloading components.

Tell him to get the RCBS Supreme Rockchucker, the Hornady Quick disconnects, better spent primer catcher, a case kicker, put a gear track on the front of his bench and the speed will easily double.    For the next speed increase, he can go to bench priming.

I find that for simple reloading of something like .45 ACP, the Lee Kit that comes with their low cost turrent (but not progressive) press with powder measure, scale etc. is a good starting point and much less expensive that a kit set up from Redding or RCBS.

I'd skip the Rock Chucker and get the new RCBS Rebel (or a Lee Classic Cast). The primer catch system on the Rock Chucker would be a hindrance for loading in quantity.

I’d go with the Lee turret press. Quite inexpensive and pretty handy. Best that he don’t get too much invested because if he gets into his he’s going to want a progressive sooner or later.
JKR

Yep - Next stop Star Universal

The Lee Classic turret. He can install all the dies in the 4 hole turret and not have to adjust them every time he changes them. If he wants to load single stage he can remove the auto-index rod.

VNK971 wrote:The Lee Classic turret. He can install all the dies in the 4 hole turret and not have to adjust them every time he changes them. If he wants to load single stage he can remove the auto-index rod.

I have one in my reloading shop that I use for pistol cartridges that I don’t shoot as often. I have extra turrets set up for 45colt, 44 mag, 32 S&W etc.. I keep the Dillon setup for 45ACP.
JKR

Lee turret

Aprilian wrote:Tell him to get the RCBS Supreme Rockchucker, the Hornady Quick disconnects, better spent primer catcher, a case kicker, put a gear track on the front of his bench and the speed will easily double.    For the next speed increase, he can go to bench priming.

I’m curious about this case kicker!  Where does one find this?

I bought this one and while it took a bit to get it tuned, it is a fantastic add.

I assume the person chose the Lee single stage because it is the cheapest way to get into reloading.

Given that, I would not spend money on any "improvements" and instead save my pennies until I can afford a turret or progressive.

What does your coworker plan to do?  Rifle?  Pistol?  Competition or fun at the range?

He just bought a .45 and wants to reload for fun. Not into competition at this point. 

He chose the Lee press to save money as he gets started.

V

One recommendation I always make is to crimp separately from seating and use the Lee Factory Crimp Die as the final step.

javaduke wrote:One recommendation I always make is to crimp separately from seating and use the Lee Factory Crimp Die as the final step.

+1

I use a Redding T 7 press. Very solid and just change the head to reload something different.
I like the Redding taper crimp.

I load my .38 specials using a Lee Classic Single Stage Press. I have Hornady lock n load quick change die adapters on all my Lee dies. Works fantastic. Press is very well made and simple to operate at a very reasonable price. I purchased a bench primer and Harrell's powder throw. I prefer taking my time and enjoying the process. Then again, I don't shoot as much as I used to. I would recommend, as with any press, a good solid base/bench. I also purchased a Lyman M die for case neck expansion. Works great. Good luck with whatever you choose!

I use a single stage press, I have an RCBS RS2 it is a lower priced version of the Rock Crusher, I got it 32 years ago and it still works great, I use it mostly for 45acp and 38 special.  I would not hesitate to look for a used RCBS press on E-bay.  If your work flow is laid out you can crank out a reasonable mount of ammo in a day or less.  I like to seat and crimp in separate steps so a single stage press works well for me.  Look for other equipment on ebay as well.  Good luck

"put a gear track on the front of his bench and the speed will easily double."


What is a gear track and how is it used?


Thanks,


Glenn

I bought one of these rails https://www.gladiatorgarageworks.com/collections/wall-organization/products/4-wide-geartrack%C2%AE-channels-2-pack 

I put these bins on the rail
https://www.gladiatorgarageworks.com/products/small-item-bins-3-pack?_pos=2&_sid=6b95edafd&_ss=r

I ordered through home depot and had it delivered to my local store.

I make "dams" for the front of the bins from roof flashing material and that holds roughly 150-200 45 ACP without overflowing.

It really shines with a case kicker (see above post).


As to how to use - left hand places case in press, right hand pulls the lever, on closing the lever the case kicker dumps the case into the bin ...  repeat ..... repeat.  Each hand has only one task, therefore it speeds up your rhythm.